Hints from Heloise: Tips can help alleviate motion sickness

Dear Heloise: Do you have any hints for reducing motion sickness while in the car? We are planning a road trip, and my daughter has an issue with carsickness.

I don't want the trip to be completely miserable for her. -- Anne in Vermont

Dear Anne: Oh, motion sickness is dreadful. Here are a few hints to help make the trip a little more enjoyable:

- Make sure she eats before the trip. A lot of people think not eating will help, but it can make things worse. Just don't overeat, and avoid fatty, spicy and greasy meals.

- Take crackers or other small snacks, and eat frequently to alleviate nausea.

- Position your daughter for a smoother ride. Have children sit in the middle of the back seat to reduce movement.

- Keep her focused on the horizon. Don't let her read.

- Let cool air blow on her face. Turn the air-conditioner vent toward her, or crack a window open.

- Distract her. Try singing songs, playing games or talking to focus her mind on something else.

Watch for the signs of motion sickness, such as loss of appetite, cold sweats or queasiness. If you notice these, pull over for a break.

Have her stretch her legs, use the restroom or stop for a quick bite to eat. Take enough time for the symptoms to pass, and then begin the trip again. -- Heloise

Dear Heloise: I know you're an animal lover, and your guidance to the reader who asked about how to attract more birds to her yard was great. I'd like to add a key point: I read a statistic that the majority of American songbirds need insects to feed their young. I learned that the most important thing you can do to support and attract birds is to stop using pesticides. -- Julie in New Jersey

Dear Heloise: We have a brick patio. The bricks are not glazed or finished in any way. We cooked hamburgers and got grease spots on the bricks. Is there any way to get the grease out? -- Sara M., Lubbock, Texas

Dear Sara: Try using liquid laundry detergent. Mix 1 cup of detergent with a gallon of water. Use a soft-bristled brush and scrub thoroughly. Do a small section at a time, then rinse. If that does not remove the stain, you might need to try a commercial brick cleaner, which is available at most hardware or home-improvement stores. Be sure to read all instructions and follow safety guidelines. -- Heloise

Dear Heloise: To keep things from accidentally falling into the toilet, close the lid when you are done. No more arguments about guys forgetting to put the seat down. It doesn't matter if you sit or stand. Everybody lifts the lid, and everybody puts it back down before washing his or her hands. -- Angie in Central Texas